More time for flooded farmers to access assistance
Primary producers impacted by the North and Far North Tropical Low in early 2025 now have an additional six months to apply for disaster assistance grants of up to $75,000.
Producers in 10 local government areas (LGAs) now have until 14 August 2026 to apply for Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants from the Australian and Queensland governments.
Eligible LGAs are Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Charters Towers, Flinders, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Tablelands, Townsville, and Yarrabah.
Grants can be used to cover the costs of clean-up and recovery activities, including:
- purchasing equipment and materials for clean-up
- disposing of damaged goods
- replanting of crops
- repairing or replacing fencing, buildings and infrastructure
- covering additional labour costs.
Over the past 12 months, many primary producers in the region have been affected by multiple disaster events.
Widespread impacts experienced by producers following the tropical low included damage to crops, fences and equipment.
Extending the deadline acknowledges the enormous challenges producers have faced in that time and allows them to concentrate on completing recovery works and accessing much needed support.
Disaster assistance grants are provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Primary producers are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply for the grants by visiting the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority’s website or by calling 1800 623 946.
Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Industry Recovery and Resilience Officers (IRROs) are available to assist producers seeking additional support.
Contact details and Further information and contact details for IRROs are available on DPI’s website or by phoning 13 25 23.